This procedure replaces the driver airbag module in the steering wheel of a 2012-2017 Toyota Camry with 2.5L I4 engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Driver airbag module × 1 — Use OEM specification - must match vehicle VIN

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Turn ignition to OFF position and remove key
3. Ensure front wheels are pointing straight ahead
4. Mark the steering wheel position relative to the column with masking tape for alignment reference
5. Open hood and disconnect the negative battery terminal
6. Wait a minimum of 2 minutes to allow airbag backup capacitor to discharge - set a timer and do not proceed early
7. Ensure you have the correct replacement airbag module that matches your vehicle VIN and production date

Procedure

1. 1

   Access airbag module mounting bolts
   From the back side of the steering wheel, locate the two Torx T30 access holes on either side of the wheel (approximately 3 o'clock and 9 o'clock positions). These holes provide access to the airbag mounting bolts.
2. 2

   Remove airbag module bolts
   Using a Torx T30 bit, remove the two airbag module mounting bolts through the access holes on both sides of the steering wheel. Turn counterclockwise to remove. Keep these bolts for reinstallation.
   ⚠Ensure 2 minutes have elapsed since battery disconnect before performing this step.
   Torque spec

   Airbag Module Bolts7 Nm (5 lb-ft)
3. 3

   Release airbag module from steering wheel
   Carefully pull the airbag module straight away from the steering wheel. It may require gentle wiggling to disengage the retaining clips. Pull only far enough to access the electrical connectors behind the module (approximately 2-3 inches).
   ⚠️Support the airbag module with both hands. Do not let it hang by the wiring harness.
4. 4

   Disconnect airbag electrical connector
   Locate the yellow airbag connector on the back of the module. Press the locking tab and carefully disconnect the connector. On some models, there may be a secondary horn connector (typically white or gray) - disconnect this as well if present.
   ⚠Handle connectors gently. The yellow connector contains the deployment circuit and must not be damaged.
5. 5

   Remove old airbag module
   With all connectors disconnected, remove the airbag module from the vehicle. Immediately place it face-up on a clean, flat surface in a safe location away from your work area. Never place the module face-down or set anything on top of it.
6. 6

   Inspect steering wheel and connectors
   Examine the steering wheel mounting surface for any damage or debris. Inspect the yellow airbag connector and wiring harness for any signs of damage, corrosion, or wear. Clean the connector contact area with a clean, dry cloth if needed.
7. 7

   Prepare new airbag module
   Remove the new airbag module from its packaging carefully. Verify it matches the original part configuration. Check that the module surface is clean and free from any protective films or debris. Never touch the deployment surface.
   ⚠️Keep the new airbag module away from heat sources, static electricity, and electrical testing equipment.
8. 8

   Connect electrical connectors to new module
   Connect the yellow airbag connector to the new module first. Push firmly until you hear and feel a positive click. If equipped, connect the horn connector. Gently tug on each connector to verify it is fully seated and locked.
9. 9

   Position new airbag module
   Carefully position the new airbag module onto the steering wheel, ensuring the wiring is not pinched or kinked. Align the mounting holes in the module with the threaded inserts in the steering wheel. The module should sit flush against the steering wheel surface.
10. 10

    Install and torque airbag module bolts
    Insert both Torx T30 airbag module bolts through the access holes on either side of the steering wheel. Thread them by hand first to ensure proper alignment. Using a torque wrench, tighten both bolts to exactly 7.0 Nm (5.0 lb-ft) in a cross pattern. This torque specification is critical for proper airbag function.
    ⚠️Exact torque is critical. Under-torquing may allow the module to move during deployment; over-torquing may damage the module or prevent deployment.
    Torque spec

    Airbag Module Bolts7 Nm (5 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Verify installation
    Visually inspect the airbag module to ensure it is seated evenly and flush with the steering wheel on all sides. Check that no wiring is visible or pinched. Verify both mounting bolts are fully tightened.
12. 12

    Reconnect battery
    Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Ensure the connection is clean and tight. Do not enter the vehicle or turn the key yet.
13. 13

    System verification and diagnostic check
    From outside the vehicle (do not sit in driver seat yet), turn the ignition to ON position without starting the engine. Observe the airbag warning light on the instrument cluster. It should illuminate for approximately 6 seconds, then turn off. If the light stays on, flashes, or does not illuminate, there is a system fault that must be diagnosed before driving.
    ⚠️Do not drive the vehicle if the airbag warning light remains illuminated or behaves abnormally. Have the system professionally diagnosed immediately.

Reassembly

1. Verify steering wheel alignment matches the reference marks made during preparation
2. Ensure all connectors are fully seated and locked
3. Confirm airbag module sits flush with no gaps around the perimeter
4. Remove all tools from the vehicle interior

Verification

• Turn ignition ON - airbag warning light should illuminate for 6 seconds then turn OFF
• If equipped with a multi-information display, check for any airbag system messages
• Test horn function to verify horn circuit is connected properly
• Gently press around the perimeter of the airbag module to confirm it is securely mounted with no movement
• If airbag light remains on or any abnormality is detected, do not drive - have system professionally diagnosed with a scan tool
• Consider having the system verified with a professional scan tool to confirm no diagnostic trouble codes are present

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